Accounting Interview Questions And Example Answers
Your accountant resume will get you in the door, but it is the person you present in the interview that will either make or break your career. Being well prepared for your interview, including rehearsing answers to typical accounting interview questions, will ensure you make an exemplary first impression on the recruiting manager.
You may be the best accountant there is, but if you cannot convince the interview panel that you are the ideal candidate, they will think you are less qualified. Our objective is to introduce you to the standard accounting interview questions that you will come across and assist you in learning the best interview strategies that will help you outdo your competitors.
Below are some of the most common accounting interview questions.
1. Why did you choose accounting as your profession?
This relatively typical interview question is often used as a warm-up; to break the ice and give the recruiting manager an opportunity to familiarize with you. However, this doesn’t mean it’s a question that doesn’t need careful thought before answering. You should answer objectively by giving instances of events that took place as your grew that made you choose the accounting industry. Were you the treasurer of a high school club? Did you save for years to buy your first house? Provide the interviewer with enough information about yourself and your studies.
2. How do you reduce the risks for errors in your work?
I am not perfect, but I don’t make a lot of mistakes especially when it comes to financial reports. As an accountant, I recognize even the slightest mistake can lead to an enormous financial mess. I go through my work several times and create a system of checks and balances. If I’m not sure about a financial record, calculation or assumption, I always consult with a colleague. It also improves your opportunities of landing a job if you give an example of a time you noticed an error.
3. Have you worked elsewhere as a professional in this field?
Yes, I have worked as an accountant in a hotel and a busy law firm.
4. What are the essential the accounting concepts?
Accounting concepts are the fundamental expectations on which the system of accounting is founded.
The following are some of the basic accounting concepts:
- Dual Aspect Concept
- Business Entity Concept
- Money Measurement Concept
- Accounting Period Concept, etc.
5. Which is your best accounting application and why?
Every accounting application comes with its share of pros and cons, but I prefer Microsoft Accounting Professional. It offers reliable and quick processing of accounting transactions that free up time and increase accuracy.
6. Where do you want to be in five years?
This is a common question that cuts across all industries. The question gives you the opportunity to showcase your dreams and determination as well. Your answer should not only be decent, but honest. It should bring out the things you hope to learn from the position you will be given in the organization you are interviewing with while showcasing a good plan for your career.
7. Why do you want to work for our company?
I’m an avid follower of your company. Your ideology of honesty and integrity has always impressed me. When I was told your company was looking for an experienced accountant, I didn’t want this opportunity to pass me. I believe I can be an asset to this company and I look forward to joining your team.
By rehearsing for these accounting interview questions, you improve your chances of landing a job as an accountant even if you have just recently graduated. It may help to practice asking and answering the accounting interview questions with your family or friends.
